Amazon HQ2: Amazon Takes its Leave

Bye, Bye New York

In an extremely surprising and shocking turn of events, eCommerce giant Amazon has decided to cancel its plans for a second headquarters in Long Island City in New York City. The news came on Thursday amidst the many feelings of dismay, anger, retribution, and pride. After announcing their departure from the state many protesters were left feeling vindicated that they stood up to and “defeated” the largest corporation in the world. Supporters of the new headquarters were left feeling shocked. In fact, both sides were shocked at the result. It’s quite surprising that even with the mayor of New York and the governor of New York putting their differences aside they didn’t come through. This isn’t a quiet affair either. Many have given their thoughts on this monumental decision.

Opinions

Amazon wasn’t quiet about the leave. They also didn’t hide their feelings towards the decision either. “A number of state and local politicians have made it clear that they oppose our presence and will not work with us to build the type of relationships that are required to go forward,” Amazon said in a statement. The governor and mayor also gave their two cents on the subject.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo stated, “A small group of politicians put their own narrow political interests above their community — which poll after poll showed overwhelmingly supported bringing Amazon to Long Island City — the state’s economic future and the best interests of the people of this state.” Mayor Bill de Blasio stated “We gave Amazon the opportunity to be a good neighbor and do business in the greatest city in the world. Instead of working with the community, Amazon threw away that opportunity.” There’s quite a lot to digest in these three statements.

Going off of the Amazon statement, it’s easy to see they’re feeling some kind of negative way about this. Furthermore, and this is just an opinion, there’s a bit of sass in there. The governor’s statement is easily read into. He feels scorned and upset at the people that were the proponent of this decision.

Future

The mayor’s statement is a little more confusing given context. On the surface, it seems that he has turned on them. However, upon closer inspection of the context surrounding this whole situation you might think differently. The mayor actually spoke to Amazon representatives the week of the announcement. He spoke that he was still completely on board for making the transition as smooth as possible. He was completely on board to keep the deal that was made. Now when you read this statement it’s easy to think that he’s turned on them. But, is that really the case? Regardless, Amazon has made their bed and they’ve already explained how they’re moving forward. The 25,000 jobs that would have existed in New York are now going to be spread among the various tech hubs Amazon has across North America. Furthermore, although Amazon has stated that they will not find a replacement for New York it’s easy to speculate. Only the future will tell.

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